Churches support breast awareness campaign

Black-majority churches have given their support to the Be Clear on Cancer campaign, which highlights that early diagnosis of breast cancer can save lives in women aged 70 and over. The campaign, targeted at women from Black African and Caribbean communities, seeks to teach them the signs and symptoms of breast cancer; to talk to their daughters or grand-daughters, and to visit their doctor if they spot any changes in their breasts. Research shows that older women, particularly from Black African and Caribbean communities, are more likely to delay presenting to their GP with breast cancer.

The New Testament Assembly church in Leyton, east London, was the first of a number of Black Pentecostal churches to host a Be Clear on Cancer awareness event. Davinia Green, Breast Health Promotion Manager at Breast Cancer Care, gave a talk about breast cancer awareness at the church. She said, “By holding community events like this, and sharing information about the signs and symptoms of breast cancer, we want to help women feel more comfortable about being breast aware and talking about any concerns.”

Reverend Marlene Greaves, of the New Testament Assembly church in Leyton, said:

“The Be Clear on Cancer event provided a great opportunity to reduce ignorance around the issue of cancer. I believe it left the women with a greater sense of responsibility towards themselves and the women in their lives, to talk openly about breast health. Our aim was to apply practical wisdom to faith, and give the women enough information to make informed choices around their health. I’d say the event helped us to achieve this.”

Other churches hosting the Be Clear on Cancer campaign are: Greater Grace Fellowship in Bellingham; the Redeemed Christian Church of God in South Wimbledon, and New Wine Church in south east London.